The thyroid gland is responsible for multiple functions of our body. According to researches one in ten Indians is suffering from any one of thyroid problems – Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism. There are many other thyroid disorders but these two are the most common.

In hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland becomes too active and produces over thyroid hormone. On the other hand, in hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland becomes less active and produces less thyroid hormone. 

Thyroid problems are commonly seen in women between the ages of 18 to 35. In India, many women are suffering from hypothyroidism. Although men also suffer from thyroid disorders, however, the number is comparatively lesser than women.

Causes of Thyroid Problems: 

The general causes of thyroid disorders are given below:

Hashimoto’s disease

Graves’ disease

Iodine Deficiency

Inflammation of the thyroid

Cancerous tumors on the thyroid gland

Thyroid surgery

Genetic disorders

Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

The symptoms of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are different.

Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism

Unintentional frequent weight loss

Irregular and rapid heartbeat

Enlarged thyroid gland

Eye irritation and vision problem

Infrequent menstrual periods

Nervousness, anxiety, and irritability

Increased heat sensitivity

Excessive sweating

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism

Weight gain

Fatigue

Heavy menstrual periods

Forgetfulness

Harsh Voice

Intolerance to cold

Dry skin and hair

Thyroid problems are difficult to diagnose through symptoms only because many symptoms of thyroid disorders are similar to other diseases. However, if you see symptoms like frequent weight loss or weight gain, irregular heartbeat, irregular menstrual periods or unusual sweating then you should immediately consult a doctor. A small disease can become big and untreatable if we ignore it.

Consequences of Thyroid Problems

Thyroid problems affect all the systems like the respiratory system, reproductive system, digestive system, nervous system, endocrine system, and cardiovascular systems. The thyroid problem affects the metabolism, mental functions, and energy level of the body. Thyroid disorders in pregnant women can cause placental abnormalities and also increase risk on the mother’s health and baby’s health. Hyperthyroidism becomes the cause of Thyroiditis, Plummer’s disease, and grave’s disease. Untreated thyroid problems increase the risk of heart stroke, heart failure, osteoporosis, vision problems, etc.

Diagnosis of Thyroid Problems

To know the cause of thyroid disorders, doctors ask the medical history of the patient. In addition to the patient’s history, doctors also prescribe Thyroid Tests T3, T4, and TSH. Sometimes other blood tests and imaging tests are also prescribed for detail examination of the thyroid gland. Late detection of the disease not only increases the chance of surgery but also increases the risk of irreversible damage to the body. Early diagnosis of the particular thyroid disease helps to get effective treatment.

In Arth Diagnostics, a Thyroid function test is available to detect thyroid problems. It includes a test for T3, T4, and TSH. The thyroid function test is a simple blood test. The test results come on the same day within 1 hour. Fasting is not required for this test. This test can be done at home. Arth Diagnostics provides a home sample collection facility. If you are on medicines then this may affect your thyroid function test results. In that case, you should consult the doctor.

Some tests like thyroid tests, diabetes tests, and cholesterol tests should be done regularly. People above the age of 25 should go for these tests once a year. It will help them to know the body’s status regularly and prevent the development of critical diseases.

Treatment of Thyroid Problems 

Treatment of thyroid disorders depends on the test reports. In most of the cases, Thyroid problems can be well treated through medicines. The thyroid hormone level in the body does not get changed overnight. According to your test results, the doctor may ask you to undergo this test multiple times for a period of 3 to 6 months. This is to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment method. In a few cases, doctors recommend surgery to remove the part of the thyroid gland.

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